84626 - Neuropathophysiology 5 (Introduction to PSG)

Learning outcomes

In this course, students will learn the theoretical knowledge and applicability of sleep characteristics and the various types of exams needed to study physiological and pathological sleep features.

Course contents

This module is part of the Integrated Course in Neurophysiopathology. It provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical applications of sleep medicine, focusing on the characteristics of sleep and the different diagnostic techniques used to investigate its physiological and pathological features.

The course will specifically cover the following topics:

• Normal and pathological sleep architecture.

• Actigraphic assessment methods.

• Twenty-four-hour monitoring techniques.

• Neurophysiological assessment of excessive daytime sleepiness.

• The Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT).

• Polysomnographic indices (Apnea Index, Periodic Limb Movement Index [PLM Index], and Atonia Index).

• Video-polysomnography.

• Interpretation and reporting of polysomnographic recordings.

Readings/Bibliography

Required: Slides showed during the course, a PDF of which will be immediately available; scientific references showed during the course; AASM for the scoring of sleep and associated events.


Optional: Sleep Medicine Textbook, ESRS (European Sleep Research Society), 2014.

Teaching methods

Teaching will consist of lectures supported by slide presentations.

Practical sessions will include the analysis of polysomnographic recordings presented during the lectures, with interactive interpretation and discussion under the guidance of the teacher.

Assessment methods

The assessment consists of an oral examination in which students will be asked to discuss one of the topics covered during the course. Students will be evaluated on their ability to present the topic using appropriate technical terminology and a clear, logical sequence of reasoning.

The grade obtained in this module contributes to the final grade of the Integrated Course. The overall grade for the Integrated Course is calculated as a weighted average of the grades obtained in the individual modules, with weights proportional to the number of ECTS credits assigned to each module.

Final grading criteria:

• 18–19: Knowledge of a very limited number of topics covered in the course; analytical skills demonstrated only with substantial guidance from the instructor; overall correct use of language.

• 20–24: Knowledge of a limited number of course topics; ability to perform independent analysis only in straightforward or procedural contexts; correct use of technical language.

• 25–29: Good knowledge of a wide range of course topics; ability to carry out independent critical analysis; sound command of subject-specific terminology.

• 30–30 cum laude: Comprehensive knowledge of the topics covered in the course; ability to perform independent critical analysis and make connections across topics; excellent command of subject-specific terminology; strong argumentative and reflective skills.

Students with specific learning disorders (SLD) or temporary or permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the University's dedicated support service (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti ) as early as possible to discuss appropriate accommodations. Requests for accommodations must be submitted to the course teacher at least 15 days before the examination date. The instructor will assess the appropriateness of the requested measures in light of the course learning objectives.

Teaching tools

The slides will be made available to students within one week after the corresponding class.

Throughout the duration of the course, the teacher will be available by appointment to provide individual clarification, guidance, and further discussion on the course topics.

Office hours

See the website of Federica Provini